A major milestone has been completed at Albert Street station, the first new Brisbane CBD train station in more than 120 years.
The Queensland Government is getting the Cross River Rail project back on track, with the newly installed 153-tonne station canopy, which will provide shade over the public plaza outside the main entrance, now clearly visible from the street.
While sections of the Albert Street green spine – a shady subtropical boulevard between Mary and Elizabeth streets with outdoor dining – is now open to the public.
There’s also been a hive of activity below ground, with the recent installation of Queensland’s longest escalator measuring more than 37 metres at the station’s northern entrance for those approaching from Queen Street.
29 escalators have been installed at Albert Street, the most of any underground Cross River Rail station.
First Cross River Rail passenger services are expected to commence in 2029.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg said the milestone reflected the State Government’s commitment to delivering the once-in-a-generation rail transformation and essential transport infrastructure.
“We’ve worked hard to restore momentum on Cross River Rail and the progress is clear – the canopy is in place, the plaza is taking shape, and the station is moving closer to completion,” Mickelberg said.
“With projects like Cross River Rail, Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail, and The Wave on the Sunshine Coast, we’re building the public transport network Queenslanders need for 2032 and beyond.”
Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO, Graeme Newton, said Albert Street station would become a prominent inner-city landmark.
“It’s exciting to see the station coming to life in the heart of the CBD,” Newton said.
“The underground tunnels and stations are just one part of the Delivery Authority’s wider scope – our teams are also carrying out essential works across the rail network during the quieter holiday period, including installing new signalling infrastructure, improving drainage and forming new tracks.”
